Questions?

For SMSSP in particular, admitted students’ families typically have household incomes under $90,000. The average household income of enrolled Scholars’ families has been $55,000. We consider the size of the family supported by the household income and additional information provided by the family when determining an applicant's eligibility.

No. At this time, the Stanford Middle School Scholars Program can only serve students who live in and attend school in the United States.

No. Students may only participate in the Stanford Middle School Scholars Program for one year.

No. Scholars will need to attend both the summer and fall semester components of the program.

Participants are expected to attend and participate with their webcam on during the live course meetings. Read more about our attendance policy here. 

We will consider applications from students who have clearly demonstrated a motivation to learn and grow academically. However, we also recognize that not all students are in a situation where they can excel to their fullest potential. We will accept applications from students who have a B- average or above, and/or are showing an upward trajectory in their grades.

A highly selective independent school for grades 7-12, Stanford Online High School (OHS) brings together students from around the U.S. and the world who seek a rigorous, challenging education designed to prepare them for college and beyond. Our students meet in live online courses, using a highly interactive virtual classroom. Unlike most schools, Stanford OHS offers full-time studies and different levels of enrollment; many of our over 900 students combine their regular school day with one course at Stanford OHS.

Scholars and families will have the opportunity to meet with the Stanford OHS Office of Admissions in the fall to learn more about the application process for Stanford OHS. The Admissions team will provide support and answer questions about applying to middle or high schools, summer programs, personal essay writing, and interview preparation that will be helpful in applying to Stanford OHS or any other private/independent school. While the Stanford OHS Admissions team works closely with Scholars and their families, the Stanford OHS admissions process is separate and independent from the Stanford Middle School Scholars Program. Participation in the Stanford Middle School Scholars Program does not guarantee admission into Stanford OHS.

The fact that a student has participated in a given program, activity, or work is not in and of itself the value-add to their college application. What is most valuable is how students learn, grow, and develop their talents and curiosity because of these experiences.

Stanford University’s undergraduate admissions process is separate and independent from Stanford Pre-Collegiate Studies, Stanford Middle School Scholars Program, and Stanford Online High School. Applications to college or university do not typically include activities that take place in middle school.

Participants should have a reliable broadband internet connection that is robust enough to handle video conferencing with minimal difficulties. Our program utilizes a video conferencing platform to create an interactive environment for students which includes having all students on camera, chat, videos, and presentations, all of which create a high demand on each student's internet connection. The experience of the student in the online classroom is dependent on a reliable internet connection. If available, we highly recommend that participants use a wired ethernet connection instead of a wireless connection, which can be less stable.

Scholars may request technical equipment through the SMSSP Device Lending Program upon acceptance to the program.